OBITUARY

Karen Ann Killary

August 31, 1957 – March 6, 2019

Tribute Video

Karen Ann Killary

Karen Killary, 61, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 6, surrounded by friends and family.
Karen grew up in Livingston, New Jersey, and graduated from Livingston High School in 1975. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Hartwick College in 1979. After ten years as a research scientist at UMDNJ, Karen returned to Livingston to raise her two children, Sean and Lisa, while working as a pathologist at Novartis Pharmaceuticals for 25 years.

Karen actively contributed to the Livingston community, serving as chairperson of the Youth Appreciation Week Committee and in addition planning Livingston’s Year 2000 Millennium Celebration. Karen also served as President of the Novartis Chapter of Toastmasters International.

Recently, Karen was an enthusiastic leader in her Fox Hills condominium community in Rockaway, notably within the Women’s Club, Italian Club, Mah Jongg Club, and Gardening Club.

Karen’s lively spirit and relentless pursuit of happiness has had an immeasurable impact on those around her, as she planned countless memorable events and social gatherings to bring joy to the people in her life.
Karen was diagnosed with HER2+ Metastatic Breast cancer in 2002. She courageously battled the aggressive disease for 17 additional years; her success and longevity were a testament to her bravery, strength and her appreciation for life.

A celebration of her life will be held at Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, 145 E Mt. Pleasant Ave, Livingston, NJ 07039 on Saturday, March 16, from 11-2pm.

If you would like to make a donation in her memory, please consider donating to METAvivor, the non-profit dedicated to support for metastatic breast cancer.

REMEMBERING

Karen Ann Killary

Mary Arnella-Venezia

March 16, 2019

Deepest sympathies to Sean, Lisa and the Killary family. Karen was a wonderfully positive person, such a role model to anyone facing adversity. I worked with her on many projects at Novartis, she was a great scientist and wonderful coworker. I remember when she rallied everyone to participate in one of the cancer walks, she inspired many people to get involved. She will be missed...

Eileen Wallin

March 15, 2019

I am so saddened by this news. Karen was a truly wonderful soul. May God bless her

Eunice Winters

March 10, 2019

Thanks to Cynthea and Jim I have many wonderful memories of Karen on holidays. She was a very special lady. Sean and Lisa, I’ll be praying for you in this time of grieving.

Susan Gillespie

March 9, 2019

Karen was a woman of great power who added strength to everyone she met. She was indeed unforgettable. She radiated happiness, too, even when you knew she was suffering. A rare person who I'm so glad I knew.

Rita Giordano

March 9, 2019

My most heart felt condolences to the Killary family.Karen and I met in the early 90's. She walked into Stern's Hair Salon in Willowbrook Mall where I worked for a hair cut and perm. We instantly clicked. She was always happy, not once did she come into the salon without a smile on her face. Through Karen I had the pleasure of meeting her beautiful family and having Sean be a part of my bridal party. I consider myself to be lucky having known Karen even for just a short while.

Ann Moore-Pak

March 8, 2019

Karen was a very dear friend of mine since our church group days... many many years ago! . Our last outing was at Anthony’s coal fired pizza when she was doing well. She was full of life and in great spirits, I’m very saddened to hear this news. She was beyond special and loved her children with all her heart and they both made her so proud! She couldn’t have asked for more! Her memory will live on. She will never be forgotten, by me, or anyone who knew her.

Rinat Ariely

March 8, 2019

The smile you see in Karen’s picture depicts the everyday sunny and positive disposition that I will remember her by. She was a beautiful, caring soul and a good friend. She always had a good story to share and a warm hug to give, and was ever so proud of her children. Karen will be missed, and always remembered with love and affection.

Greg Argentieri

March 8, 2019

Some people will walk in and walk out of our lives, but Karen is one whose footstep made a long-lasting impression and will never be forgotten. Karen was the bravest and strongest person I know, her journey amazing. Karen will be greatly missed, but her warmth, kindness and gentle spirit will be remembered forever.

Diane Baros

March 8, 2019

Karen was a beautiful soul inside and out. I will always remember her smile and grace. She will be missed.

Jose Miranda

March 8, 2019

I will, for as long as I live, remember her on my trips to the Ocean, we shared a love for the beach, specially the Jersey shore and Point Pleasant.Karen was a genuine, beautiful soul. I am deeply sorry.

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